The French New Wave had a significant influence on documentaries in the 1970s, particularly in terms of formal experimentation and the blending of fiction and non-fiction elements. The French New Wave filmmakers introduced new techniques that rejected the traditional Hollywood style of filmmaking and emphasized creative freedom. This influence can be seen in documentary filmmakers who experimented with non-linear storytelling and unconventional editing techniques.

Additionally, the French New Wave emphasized the importance of the director’s voice and personal vision in filmmaking. This led to a rise in personal documentaries, where the filmmaker became a central figure in the film and used their own experiences and emotions to tell a story. Finally, the French New Wave also influenced the use of handheld cameras and natural lighting, which allowed filmmakers to capture more spontaneous and authentic moments in their documentaries. In summary, the French New Wave had a significant influence on documentaries in the 1970s, leading to experimentation with new techniques and a greater emphasis on personal storytelling.

Black and White photo of Man with a 16mm Camera